Keys to the Game

Gary Klein’s keys to the game, and how the Trojans measured up:

1. Establish the running game. Sultan McCullough played the first series, but Justin Fargas came on and gained 120 yards in 20 carries. Fargas set up the Trojans’ first touchdown with a 47-yard run, his longest of the year. The Trojans finished with 185 rushing yards.

2. Avoid turnovers. The Trojans, who had not committed a turnover in two consecutive games, had three against the Irish. Carson Palmer had two passes intercepted and Hershel Dennis lost a fumble on a kickoff return.

3. Neutralize Notre Dame special teams. Carlos Pierre-Antoine of Notre Dame blocked a punt by Tom Malone and recovered it in the end zone to give the Fighting Irish a 13-10 lead late in the second quarter. Vontez Duff returned a punt 52 yards and Arnaz Battle averaged slightly more than 20 yards for four kickoff returns.